Rules

2026-2027 SDA Rules & Regulations

1. Registration

• Registration Assistance: The Star Dance Alliance is proud to offer the best customer service in the industry. Our team is here to support you with any registration or leveling questions along the way. New this season, from August through December, you’re welcome to book one-on-one time with any member of our Client Relations team. We’re here to make the process easy and ensure you feel confident every step of the way.
• Event Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis with a non-refundable $10 deposit per routine to guarantee those routines a spot.
• Deposit Schedule:
  • A $10 per routine deposit is required and must be paid no later than October 1, 2026 for the event. If an event reaches capacity before the deadline, studios will be contacted at that time and given 10 days to submit their deposits. If a deposit is not received according to the guidelines above, the spots will be automatically released, without correspondence.
  • Deposit funds are non-transferable to any other SDA brand within 59 days or less of an event should entire attendance be withdrawn.
• Entries must be submitted (paid in full, with all entries submitted in entirety) through the online system—no phone, fax, mail, or email entries accepted.
• The last day to submit your finalized routine information is 30 days before the event. Failure to meet this deadline will result in forfeiting the spot and deposit.
• Changes to your registration:
  • When making changes, please be sure to communicate updates to all Competition Brands you are attending, as changes made in one specific event may not automatically update across every system and every event.
  • When making global changes to a specific routine, it is imperative that you do so by logging in to your studio portal (through www.dancebug.com) to make the change. Do NOT enter through any competition registration site, as this only changes this specific event.
  • Any changes to your registration within 30 days of the event must be submitted in writing (via email). Change fees will apply.
• No entries will be accepted at the competition location for any new or registered studio. Only Title, Headshot and Costume entries may be added onsite.
• Entries are confirmed only when fully paid and music uploaded.
• Entries are processed in the order received and limited to available performance time at each event.
• Any routine or dancer that is found to be breaking the rules will automatically be adjusted by our system.
• Competition Age/Level Disclaimers: Due to the nature of open registration, we cannot guarantee that every age division or performance level will have entries to compete against. While we do our best to provide a competitive experience for all performers, registration is first-come, first-served and varies by event. No refunds or credits will be issued due to a lack of competition in a specific age group, division, category, or level.
• By completing your registration for a Star Dance Alliance event, all registered contestants do hereby grant permission to the Star Dance Alliance to publish their photographs and/or videos for promotional reasons. This includes social media, local television, national television, promotional videos, the web or in any other publication to promote its competitions. Furthermore, you hereby release all directors, officers or representatives of this competition from all claims for damages or injuries sustained while participating in any activity related to this competition. In addition, the Star Dance Alliance reserves the right to communicate one on one, or through the mailing list, with each studio using the email(s) provided in the registration system.

2. Competition Levels

• Dancer Levels:
  • Dancers are entered into the roster based on a three-level system (Showcase, Competitive, Elite) with Elite being the highest.
  • The initial level placement of each dancer in your roster should be based on the dancers within your studio.
  • A dancer can move to a higher-level mid-season but must remain at the higher level for the remainder of the season.
  • No dancer can level down at any time once they have leveled up.
  • Level changes cannot be made onsite.
  • Leveling System:
    • Showcase (Level 1) – Beginner/pre-competitive dancers:
      • Limited to 6 total routines. (Excluding Grand Lines)
      • Eligible for high score awards.
      • Cannot compete in all three level divisions (Ex: Can compete in Showcase and Competitive, OR Showcase and Elite but CANNOT compete in Showcase, Competitive AND Elite. With the exception of Grand Lines).
      • A Showcase dancer cannot do more than 3 routines at a higher level. (Excluding Grand Lines)
    • Competitive (Level 2) – Intermediate dancers:
      • Limited to 12 total routines. (Excluding Grand Lines)
      • Eligible for high score awards.
      • Cannot compete in all three level divisions (Ex: Can compete in Showcase and Competitive, OR Competitive and Elite but CANNOT compete in Showcase, Competitive AND Elite. With the exception of Grand Lines).
      • Limited to 3 Showcase routines. (Excluding Grand Lines)
    • Elite (Level 3) – Advanced dancers:
      • Eligible for High Score awards, Star Dollars and highest adjudication.
      • Elite performers cannot compete in any Showcase routines including Showcase Grand Lines.
      • Elite performers are limited to 3 Competitive routines. (Excluding Grand Lines)
    • Extraordinary Ability Level – Designed for performers who have different abilities and may face developmental or physical challenge:
      • Dancers registered at this level can compete in Showcase, Competitive or Elite routines.
• Routine Levels:
  • Routines are placed in their level divisions based on the rules set forth.
  • If your roster changes, the level of a routine will be recalculated and will compete as stipulated by our rules.
  • Any substitutions in a routine must be rostered, regardless of time of substitution.
  • The system will automatically recalculate routines based on the current rosters (age and level). Studios must verify each routine whenever changes are made to that specific routine. This applies to each event and brand.
  • The roster of a routine must account for every dancer on the stage. Any performer participating in any capacity within a routine must be registered.
  • Any routine competing in the Elite division is eligible for star dollars.
  • Leveling System:
    • Solo: Level is determined based on the level of the dancer.
    • Duet/Trios: Level is determined based on the highest level of any registered dancer in the routine.
    • All group sizes (Small groups, Large groups, Lines and Grand Lines) are determined by the 1/3 rule. If 1/3 or more of dancers in a routine are a higher level, that routine must compete at the higher level.
    • Leveling up: Only a Grand Line routine can be leveled up to a higher division with a written request to the competition.
    • If any studio has questions regarding the leveling of a specific routine, please reach out to your client relations manager for assistance regarding that event.
    • Extraordinary Ability Level – Designed for performers who have different abilities and may face developmental or physical challenge:
      • This division is designed for dancers who may have developmental or physical challenges. It is a non-competitive category created to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments, giving them the opportunity to perform in a supportive and encouraging environment.

3. General Divisions

• Solo – 1 Performer
  • No dancer can register for more than 3 solos (all levels).
  • Each competition reserves the right to limit dancers to 1-2 solos, depending on venue capability and space.
• Duet/Trio – 2-3 Performers
• Small Group – 4-9 Performers
• Large Group – 10-19 Performers
• Line – 20+ Performers (no limit to the maximum number of performers)
• Grand Line – 20+ Performers (no limit to the maximum number of performers)
  • A Grand Line is a studio routine that includes dancers across all ages and levels, typically combining multiple groups into one large performance that showcases and represents the full talent of the studio.
• IMPORTANT: A performer is any participant of any routine, on the stage, that is seen for any amount of time by the judges or from the audience perspective. Anyone visible to the audience or judges for any period of time on the stage must be considered in the calculation of the age, level and group size of the routine.
• PERFORMER COUNT: The number of performers on the stage during a routine MUST match the number of names listed in the registration/tabulation system. If substitutions or changes occur prior to the event, those will need to be submitted ASAP via email to ensure all rosters are accurate. If changes occur during an event, please make your onsite director aware immediately. In the event that there are more performers on stage during a routine than are registered, that routine may be disqualified and will not receive a refund. In addition, the studio will be charged the Tier 3 entry fee plus a $50 change fee.

4. Age Divisions

• Age is determined as of December 31st of the current year (12/31/2026).
• Ages are determined by the average age of all members of the group and do not use decimals or rounding up.
• Proof of age: A birth certificate may be required upon request.
• Ageing up: Any routine (not including solos) can be aged up to a higher age division with a written request to the competition.
• Age bump rule: The oldest dancer in a routine can only compete one age division lower than their actual age for any small group, large group or line.
  • Grand Lines are an average age and do not fall into this category.
  • 20 & Over dancers are not permitted to compete in the 11 & Under Grand Line Category.
  • Any routine (not including Grand Lines) with a performer 20 years or older will automatically fall into the 20 & Over age division.
• Dancers receive an adjudicated award based on genre, age and level. High score awards are given based on age and level as detailed below:
  • Adjudication Age Divisions:
    • 5 & Under, 6–8, 9–11, 12–14, 15–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50+
    • Note: Single age divisions are used for Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary and Open categories.
  • Overall Age Divisions:
    • Mini (5 & Under)
      • If there are less than 5 entries submitted in the overall, the competition reserves the right to combine the 5 & Under and 6-8 overall division awards.
    • Petite (6–8)
    • Junior (9–11)
    • Teen (12–14)
    • Senior (15–19)
    • 20 & Over (20+)*
      • Any routine with a performer 20 years or older must compete in Elite in the 20 & Over Age Division with the exception of 12 & Over Grand Lines.
  • Grand Line Age Divisions:
    • 11 & Under
      • No 20 & Over dancer may compete in an 11 & under Grand Line.
    • 12 & Over

5. Performance Categories

• Judges have the right to move any routine to a different category/genre if they feel it is not properly placed.
• All performance categories are permitted to have up to 25% acro/gymnastics skills and tricks within a routine.
• Singing is permitted ONLY in the Song and Dance, Vocal, Musical Theater and Grand Line divisions.
  • Each competition will have two handheld/wireless microphones. Any additional equipment may not be connected into the sound system. No personal microphones, headsets, etc. will be permitted.
• Pointe is reserved for dancers who are entered in the highest level of competition only.
• Performance Categories:
  • Acro/Gymnastics – Blending dance technique with acrobatic movement, this style highlights tumbling skills, transitions, strength and flexibility.
  • Ballet – A classical dance style emphasizing technique, grace and precision demonstrating clean lines, turnout, control and traditional movement vocabulary; ballet shoes required. (Pointe shoes cannot be worn.)
  • Pointe – An advanced style of Ballet performed in pointe shoes, requiring strength, control and precision. Reserved to Elite Level only.
  • Ballroom – A style using traditional social and competitive influences and techniques emphasizing rhythm, fluid movement and precise footwork; ballroom shoes required.
  • Baton – Combining baton twirling with dance elements, this style features coordinated movements, tricks and rhythmic patterns using baton(s).
  • Character – A style reflecting pop culture or theatrical themes through dynamic and expressive movement, often incorporating stylized footwork and gestures.
  • Cheerleading – Style of routine that incorporates jumps, stunts, tumbling and dance, often performed with chants or cheers (up to 50% acro/gymnastics allowed).
  • Clogging – A rhythmic style of dance featuring percussive footwork where dancers use their shoes to create distinctive sound.
  • Contemporary – Blending many traditional styles of dance, Contemporary emphasizes fluid movement, innovative techniques and emotional expression.
  • Drill Team – A precision-based style of dance combining sharp, synchronized movements, marching and military-style formations; may incorporate any type of dance.
  • Folkloric – A traditional dance style reflecting cultural heritage and regional movements (Ex: Polkas, Hawaiian, Irish Step Dance, Spanish Flamenco, Chinese Classical Dance, Belly dance, etc.).
  • Hip Hop – A dance style that originated in street culture, this style includes a wide range of movements, from dynamic popping and locking to smooth, rhythm-based grooves.
  • Jazz – A style incorporating sharp, rhythmic movements with smooth, fluid transitions, emphasizing both technical precision and emotional expression. Skills often include isolations, leaps, turns, kicks, etc.
  • Lip Sync – A performance style combining dance with lip-syncing through synchronized movement and pantomime.
  • Lyrical – A style that combines ballet and jazz techniques, emphasizing expressive and fluid movements to convey emotion and storytelling through music.
  • Modern – A style with emphasis on creative expression and movement concepts structured through composition of movement idioms.
  • Musical Theater – A performance style that blends acting and dancing to tell a story through expressive choreography, often portraying specific characters and emotions from stage shows, theatre productions, or Film Musicals. Lip sync is allowed.
  • Open – A versatile style that allows for a mix of styles and techniques. Routines in this style have the freedom to incorporate elements from various genres, showcasing creativity and individual expression (any dancer in pointe shoes must be an Elite dancer, NO Vocal routines permitted.)
  • Pom – Incorporating the use of pom poms, this style emphasizes precision, rhythm and coordination. Pom poms must be used for at least 80% of the routine.
  • Song & Dance – A performance style that integrates singing and dancing, with dancers performing choreographed movements while simultaneously vocalizing lyrics *no lip syncing allowed for lead vocals. Must contain at least 50% vocal / 50% dance – movement from a dance-based style while singing. Utilizes choreography that would be similar to but not limited to, Broadway or Music Video, for example.
    • *Using “motions” like a concert style performance to enhance the singing performance, would be better suited in Vocal category.
  • Tap – This style is performed in tap shoes, using the feet to produce rhythmic sounds with the floor. Tap focuses on timing, rhythm and coordination.
  • Vocal – A performance category focused on singing, where performers showcase their vocal technique, tone and expression through song (lead vocals must be live). The use of motions and movement can be added to compliment the style of song
    • Event specific: The vocal division can be broken out into levels. Please contact the competition regarding level breakouts.

6. Time Limits & Extended Time

• Time Limits:
  • Solo: 2:45 minutes (Max extension 3:45)
  • Duet/Trio: 2:45 minutes
  • Small Group (4–9 dancers): 3:00 minutes
  • Large Group (10–19 dancers): 4:00 minutes
  • Line (20+ dancers): 4:30 minutes
  • Grand Line (20+ dancers): 7:00 minutes
• Extended time:
  • $5 per performer per 30-second increments
  • Solos cannot extend time over 1 minute (Total time of 3:45.)
  • If a routine exceeds the time limit without purchasing extra time, it will face a 1-point deduction for every 5 seconds over.
  • The system will automatically calculate and charge based on the music file uploaded. If music is uploaded after a final balance is paid, any extra time fees must be paid at time of music upload.

7. Music

• Music must be uploaded 21 days before the competition through the registration portal.
• Backup options (for emergencies only):
  • Flash drives – Must be labeled with routine and studio name
  • iPods/Tablets – Each routine should be its own playlist
• Music containing profanity or offensive language may result in a score deduction or disqualification.
• Music must be recorded at the correct speed.

8. Scoring & Awards

• Adjudication: Each routine is awarded an adjudicated pin that is pre-determined based on a scoring system. Each judge has 100 points to allocate. The highest scoring routine of each specific age and performance category will be awarded first place in that category (Ex: Elite 12-14 Hip Hop Solo).
• Overalls: Routines are scored and ranked within their level, genre and age division (Ex: Elite 12-14 Solos, Showcase 8 & Under Small Groups).
  • A Soloist may not compete against themselves in any category.
  • A Soloist may not place more than once for overalls/high score in the Solo division.
  • No Duet/Trio may compete against themselves in the same performance category with the same performers. There must be a 50% difference in performers to place in overalls in the same age division.
• Judges’ decisions are final.
• Special awards, scholarships and other accolades will be awarded throughout each event.

9. Title Competition

• Each regional event will host a Title Competition within the Solo Competition.
• The Title Competition is open to Competitive and Elite soloists.
• Must be pre-registered either while registering online or onsite at the event prior to the performance. All registered entries will be judged for Title during their solo performance.
• Title is judged on equal parts technique and overall presentation.
• Dancers can place separately in both overall and title.
• There is no limit to the number of solos a dancer may enter for Title. However, a dancer can only place once in the Top 3.
• Title age divisions:
  • 5 & Under
  • 6–8
  • 9–11
  • 12–14
  • 15–19

10. Headshot & Costume Competition

• Headshot Competition:
  • Dancers interested in participating in the Headshot Competition will have their headshot photo judged on the quality of the submitted photo.
  • Headshot photos must be of one person only.
  • Dancers must be registered in a routine at the specific event they are registering into the Headshot Competition for. However, the Headshot Competition is not related to any specific routine.
  • Must be pre-registered either while registering online or onsite at the event.
  • If registering online, please upload your headshot photo directly in your registration.
  • If registering onsite, please bring a 5×7 or larger photograph on the first day of competition.
    • There is no limitation to the total number of entries a dancer registers into the Headshot Competition. However, each entry will be charged separately. A dancer can only place once in the Top 3 Headshot Competition.
    • Scoring & Judging:
      • A separate overall Top 3 will be presented based on 11 & Under and 12 & Over divisions (all levels combined).
      • Judges will offer written critiques that can be picked up in person at the end of the event.
• Costume Competition:
  • Must be pre-registered either while registering online or onsite at the event prior to the performance. All registered entries will be judged for Costume during their solo or group performance.
  • Scoring:
    • Solo Costume: A separate overall Top 3 will be presented based on 11 & Under and 12 & Over divisions.
    • Group Costume: A separate overall Top 3 will be presented based on all combined age divisions.

11. Fees & Payments

• A DanceOne Season Media Pass is required once per season, per dancer, for unlimited photos and videos.
• Payment must be made by credit card or e-check— We do not accept personal checks, money orders, or cash payments.
• There are no credit card or e-check processing fees associated with any payment method.
• E-checks are not accepted within 45 days from the event.
  • Any returned e-check will be subject to a penalty of $50.00.
• Tiered pricing based on finalized registration date (11:59pm EST):
  • Tier 1: 60+ days before the event
  • Tier 2: 30–59 days before the event
  • Tier 3: 29 or fewer days before the event
• Any outstanding balance one week prior to the event will be automatically charged based on the most recent payment method.
• Star Dollars expire at the end of the following competition season.
• Any changes or add ons made onsite must be paid at time of change.
• Change fees will be charged for a change made 30 days or less from the event for the following:
  • Level changes
  • Roster changes
  • Category changes
• Change fees are as follows:
  • $10 per change (30 days before event)
  • $25 per change (20 days before event)
  • $50 per change (under 10 days before event)
• Refunds/Transfers:
  • Refunds will not be offered for cancellations. Studio directors may reach out with any questions.
  • If an injury occurs either before an event or onsite and a dancer does not compete, a doctor’s note will need to be provided.
  • Funds can be transferred to another SDA competition if a credit exists on an account.

12. Scheduling

• Schedules are created 7-10 days out from an event.
• There is NO general scheduling format, as each regional schedule is based solely on the breakdown of routines registered for that specific city event.
• Our schedules are not based around props, hair or makeup requests.
• All entries must compete during their scheduled day and time assigned, and in the specific numerical order given. Any entry unable to compete on their scheduled day or time may request an alteration to the routine’s performance time. If this is approved, this routine will be permitted to compete for ADJUDICATION ONLY and will NOT be eligible for high score/overall awards.
• Any change in competition day and/or times is at the sole discretion of the show director and will be determined by the time allowance at each regional event.
• We reserve the right to add/remove days where necessary and reserve the right to move the competition location if it becomes necessary due to circumstances beyond its control.

13. Backstage Area

• Performers must arrive 90 minutes prior to their first scheduled performance time, within the exception of those performing within the first hour of the event.
• Routines must be checked in with the backstage manager 5 routines prior to their performance time. Once checked in, dancers must remain in the backstage area.
• Please be prepared to compete when your routine is called.
• Studio directors and performers are required to monitor timing of the event as the event can run up to an hour ahead or behind.
• Teachers may stay backstage only to prepare students.
• No parents are allowed backstage unless approved by the director.
• Unauthorized delays may result in a score deduction or disqualification.

14. Props

• All routines are allotted 2 minutes to build and remove props. Props that take longer than 2 minutes to build and remove on either end are required to register for extended time.
• Prop Extended Time:
  • $25 – up to 1 minute
  • $50 – up to 5 minutes
  • $75 – up to 7 minutes
  • $100 – 10+ minutes
• Accurate build times and descriptions must be disclosed at time of registration, as this will ensure an accurate schedule.
• Routines will not be scheduled based on prop set up time.
• Props must be fireproofed and labeled with the studio name.
• No dangerous props or live animals allowed.
• Please note that every venue is unique and has its own set of rules concerning the use of helium balloons.
• No liquids, oils, glitter, or powders on stage. If any of these are utilized and are transferred from the body to the surface of the Marley floor, it must be cleaned up IMMEDIATELY and COMPLETELY by the studio. Failure to do so may result in a clean-up fee of $500.00.
• Any items left on the stage (props, flower petals, paper, leaves, etc.) must be cleaned up by the studio in an efficient and timely manner. Failure to do so may result in a clean-up fee of $500.00.
• Please check in with your competition director regarding prop restrictions and prop procedures as procedures vary between each venue and are event specific.
• Props should be loaded in and out of the venue within the same session they are used. Storing props in the wings is not permitted.
• Failure to adhere to these restrictions may result in removal from overall high scores and/or disqualification.

15. Nationals & World Dance Championships

• Nationals:
  • To compete at Nationals, each routine must qualify by competing at an SDA Regional event.
  • Routines compete at Nationals as registered within the rules designated for the levels of dancers in their roster at that National event.
  • Performers may be added or removed from a group that qualified at a Regional Competition, but age and level must be recalculated.
  • In the event that a performer or performers are unable to participate in their respective Competition Tour’s finale event(s) at Nationals, the routine will still compete in the division in which it qualified. (Example: a large group with 10 performers has one performer who cannot participate… it will still compete as a large group with 9 performers).
    • Substitutions may be made according to the rules stated in the ‘General Divisions’ portion of the rules and regulations.
    • No teacher, professional or special guest may be added to a routine to perform at the championship final show if they did not compete during the Championship week.
  • VIDEO ENTRIES may qualify for any of our National Championships by submitting a video and a regional entry fee no later than May 15, 2027.
    • Please reach out to the competition regarding video qualification processes.
• National Title Competition:
  • Performers may enter the Title division in the same manner as regionals and are not required to have competed for Title at a Regional Competition to be eligible to enter the Title competition at Nationals.
  • Performers may NOT compete for Title at any SDA National Championship, unless they are registered with a small group, large group, line or grand line at that championship.
  • Performers who hold the reigning title of ‘MISS or MR. WORLD DANCE” are not permitted to compete for title at any SDA National Championship during the subsequent competition season.
  • Protests regarding routine placement will not be permitted at Nationals. All routines qualified through a regional event. The bump rule is applied on an event-by-event basis at the time of each competition
• World Dance Championship:
  • Golden Ticket Invitations:
    • Golden Ticket Invitations will be awarded at each regional event.
    • These invitations are awarded to individual routines to attend the World Dance Championship.
  • First-place winning routines at two or more regionals also qualify for WDC.
  • Star dollars may not be redeemed for WDC deposits upon registration.
  • Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis as spots are limited in each division. Once a division becomes full, NO MORE entries will be accepted for that division.
  • Routines compete at WDC as they qualify and compete when receiving their Golden Ticket. If the group roster remains the same, it will compete at the level in which it qualified.
  • Studios who receive Golden Tickets in the same divisions for more than the allotted number permitted must choose which routines to compete.
  • Only the highest scoring routine from each studio in each division will be eligible for the “Top 10” & “Final Five.”
  • Protests may be made ONLY to challenge performer submissions that may have altered the age or level of a routine. Routines won a Golden Ticket to qualify the routine in the routines age and level.
  • Level changes are not permitted at the WDC.

16. Protest Policy

• Protests must be given in writing within 30 minutes of the occurrence and may not be filed after an awards session. These protests will be evaluated at an appropriate time at the judge’s discretion.
• Submitted protests will not be made public.

17. General Rules

• A panel of well-qualified judges will judge contestants, and all decisions of the judges will be accepted as final.
• The Star Dance Alliance and the hosting venue are not responsible for personal injury or property loss.
• Please note that every venue is unique and has its own set of rules concerning outside food & beverage and use of helium balloons.
• The name of a routine cannot be the same as the name of the studio.
• If a dancer would like to compete at an event with two separate studios, that dancer MUST have written permission from BOTH studios prior to the event.
• Independents cannot compete at the same event if their studio is also registered to compete at the same event.
• Stage lighting for all routines may be set to one of the following options, when possible, at the discretion of the event production team: Full whitewash or dimmed white. Lighting will be consistent throughout the routine and cannot be programmed for specific moments or changes. Requests for special lighting cues, blackouts, or theatrical effects (such as strobes, spotlights, or color washes) will not be accommodated. Studios are encouraged to choreograph with these limitations in mind. Lighting settings may be limited by the venue. No refunds or re-performances will be granted due to lighting preferences.
• For the safety of all performers, dancers are prohibited from jumping off the stage in any capacity at any venue.
• No noise makers (air horns, whistles, etc.).
• No alcohol, tobacco, or drug use at the venue.
• No photography or video recording allowed.
• The use of symbols, props or themes that are inherently tied to cultural violence, historical racism or other social or physical violence of marginalized peoples are not appropriate for children’s events. Routines that incorporate uses of such violent imagery including weapons, nooses, execution devices, costumes or situations that deliberately invoke such associations may result in the disqualification of that routine.
• The Star Dance Alliance maintains a strict zero tolerance policy for any form of physical contact, harassment, or verbal abuse directed toward any individual at our events. This includes, but is not limited to, dancers, parents, teachers, judges, staff, and event personnel. Any individual found in violation of this policy will be subject to immediate removal from the event, and all associated routines may be disqualified.

18. Performer Code of Conduct

• Dressing rooms should be kept neat and orderly. Trash should be put into trash receptacles. Dressing room designations must be adhered to.
• Respect others’ property and space.
• No aggressive or threatening behavior (including any derogatory comments, shouting, excessive arguing, verbally or physically assaulting or harassing others).
• No destruction of property or engaging in illegal activity.
• No one is permitted to touch or move anyone else’s property without their permission.

19. Audience Code of Conduct

• The Star Dance Alliance is committed to creating a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Anyone not performing is considered an Audience Member. It is expected that all Audience Members conduct themselves in a professional, responsible and respectful manner at all times, and are expected to abide by all venue or campus rules, established fire & safety rules and common safety practices.
• All guests must comply with the rules set forth by each individual venue. Please be aware that bag searches may be conducted by select venues and that food & beverage may be restricted.
• PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO RECORDING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
  • Failure to abide by this rule can result in disqualification of the studio.
  • The SDA staff reserves the right to request that videos or photos be deleted from any device if it is found that they have been recorded in the competition auditorium. Teachers… It is your responsibility to inform your contestants and parents of this rule.
• There is to be NO ALCOHOL, TOBACCO or DRUG USE at any event that is hosted at a school property. TOBACCO or DRUG USE is not permitted in any of our venues. Any impaired guest will be removed.
• Sportsmanlike behavior is expected from all contestants, teachers and families at all times. Failure to display proper decorum could result in immediate disqualification. This includes attempting to recruit students from other studios to attend yours at one of our events.
• Theater Etiquette: All attendees should maintain proper theater behavior, including refraining from talking, moving around, or using electronic devices during performances.
• Audience Distractions: If any items (such as laser pointers, lights, etc.) become a distraction to performers, judges, or staff, the individual may be asked to remove them from the venue.
• Be respectful— Please stay seated during performances.
• Anyone found to be in violation may be removed from the premises and/or prohibited from returning in the future to any SDA event.